South Korea: Prosecutors Likely to Request Yoon's Arrest Warrant Extension

Synopsis

On January 24, South Korean prosecutors are anticipated to file for an extension of the arrest warrant for President Yoon Suk Yeol as they push to accelerate the investigation into his brief martial law declaration, following a transfer of the case from the CIO.

Key Takeaways

Prosecutors aim to extend Yoon's arrest warrant.
The case was transferred from the CIO.
Yoon is accused of declaring martial law.
The arrest can last up to 20 days if extended.
Ongoing Constitutional Court trial on impeachment.

Seoul, Jan 24 (NationPress) South Korean prosecutors are set to seek an extension for the arrest warrant of President Yoon Suk Yeol on Friday, according to official sources, in an effort to expedite the inquiry into his brief martial law declaration.

This action follows the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) transferring the case to the prosecution, as they lack the authority to indict a sitting President.

The special prosecution team involved in the martial law investigation is anticipated to request court approval to prolong the arrest warrant earlier in the day.

The request is expected to be submitted to the Seoul Central District Court.

Under current legislation, a suspect can be detained for a maximum of 10 days, with the option for an additional 10-day extension. Yoon was taken into custody on Sunday.

If the court grants the extension, Yoon could remain in detention until February 7, which would enable the prosecution to carry out face-to-face interrogations. However, it is uncertain if Yoon will choose to cooperate, as reported by Yonhap news agency.

The prosecution is allegedly preparing an indictment in the event that the court denies the extension request.

Law enforcement authorities are probing into allegations that Yoon orchestrated the December 3 martial law declaration, which has ignited significant political upheaval.

Yoon is accused of collaborating with former Defence Minister Kim Yong-hyun and others to instigate a riot through the declaration of martial law.

Additionally, he faces accusations of misusing his authority by deploying troops to the National Assembly to prevent lawmakers from voting against the decree.

Currently, Yoon is being held at the Seoul Detention Centre in Uiwang, located south of the capital, while a trial is ongoing in the Constitutional Court to decide on the validity of his impeachment by the National Assembly.

If the impeachment is upheld, Yoon will be ousted from his position, leading to a snap presidential election within 60 days. Conversely, if dismissed, he will be reinstated.